10-Day Croatia Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Rijeka traveling east to Lika-Senj County, Zadar, Karlovac County, and Zagreb

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Rijeka. You’ll stay in Rijeka for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Rijeka, including a castle, a church, and a museum. Start your day at Trsat Castle. This instagrammable castle is a captivating place to see in Rijeka. Then, wander over to Church Of Mary Of God Of Trsat. If romantic sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Natural History Museum Rijeka. This visually striking museum is a favorite among visitors.

Rijeka offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Maritime And History Museum Of The Croatian Coast is an underrated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Croatia is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Rijeka. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Rijeka by reserving a table at Nebo by Deni Srdoč. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and creative menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Zelena Dolina, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Teatro Lounge Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Book Caffe Dnevni Boravak, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Pub "bačva" provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Croatia and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Rijeka has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Rijeka by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A blend of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Rijeka on today’s itinerary. First up is the curiosity-inducing mosque, Islamic Center Of Rijeka. Afterward, continue to Museum Of Modern And Contemporary Art (rijeka), a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Rijeka’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Petar Kružić Stairway. This locally appreciated monument is an essential stop.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Croatia is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rijeka. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restoran Morčić, an iconic dining spot in Rijeka. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bowling Center Rijeka, a popular restaurant in Rijeka. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Seafood restaurant Feral, a hidden gem nestled in Rijeka. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Pet Jedan Tapas Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to "metropolis" Caffe Bar & Night Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Caffe Bar Kosi Toranj also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Senj, Jablanac, and Smiljan. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lika-Senj County, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Rijeka is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Sundial On The 45th Parallel, a beloved monument that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Plaža Prva Draga, enchanting visitors with its serene appeal. Continue your exploration at Nehaj Fortress. This castle is one of the town’s most frequently visited spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Rijeka at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Zavratnica Cove. After exploring the canyon, head to the often recommended Nikola Tesla Memorial Center. This museum will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the town.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lika-Senj County. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lika-Senj County. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Highlanders pub, a top-rated dining destination in Lika-Senj County. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kavana Milinković, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bistro & Pizzeria Tomislav. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lika-Senj County this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Caffe Bar Fortuna stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Amadeus offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Caffe Bar Bevanda is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Croatia.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Croatia. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Zadar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zadar, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Lika-Senj County includes an art installation, an archeological site, and a church. Sea Organ is must-visit art installation and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Monument To The Sun, a locally appreciated art installation, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Roman Forum, a romantic archeological site, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Lika-Senj County. If you’re looking for more, Zadar Cathedral is also an often recommended attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Church Of St. Donatus, a locally appreciated gem to see in the city.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zadar. Zadar offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zadar's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Pizzeria Šime, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Harvatski restorant "Galiya" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restoran Zadar - Jadera. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zadar.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Yachting Bar & Club, known for its lively atmosphere. Caffe Bar Porthos is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Factory Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Croatia!

On day 6 of your road trip in Croatia, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Zadar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Karlovac County, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and wallet-friendly activities. Start at the underrated Market Zadar, a visually striking market in Zadar. Next, go to Narodni Trg.

After visiting Market Zadar and Narodni Trg, take time to explore Zadar's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This mesmerizing park offers a unique experience. The Five Wells Square is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Kolovare Beach, one of the most serene places to visit in Zadar.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Karlovac County, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Karlovac County. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Pizzeria Tiffany Karlovac, a top-rated dining spot in Karlovac County. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ćevabdžinica Behar, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konoba Črni kos. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Karlovac County.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Choco Caffe Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Kazališna Kavana is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, R Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Croatia.

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Karlovac County, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Karlovac County, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Stari Mlin (old Mill), an increasingly popular historical landmark in the village. Then, head to Drežnik (old Town) and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking castle.

There are many interesting places to see in Karlovac County and when you are ready for more, go to Caves Of Barać. This is one of the village’s most underrated spots.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Karlovac County.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Karlovac County's best restaurants.

Savor the flavors at Konoba Kostanjac, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Castle Bistro beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Super Grill "Kod Sladića". With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Karlovac County tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Caffe Bar Bingo, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Papa's Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Yummy Street Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Croatia!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Croatia. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Zagreb. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rijeka. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Ban Josip Jelačić Statue. This notable monument is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Croatian National Theatre In Zagreb, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Park Maksimir, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Zagreb. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Zagreb Zoo. Wander around and soak in the picture-perfect atmosphere this zoo offers. Then, head to Bundek, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your day.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Rijeka. Rijeka offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Rijeka, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Dine in style at ŠtoRija, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Conca d'oro boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restoran Spagho. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Rijeka.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Public Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Kancelarija Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Beertija Klub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Croatia.